Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art based on principles of harmony and non-violence. The techniques focus on removing an attacker's ability to do harm without harming the attacker. The art is non-competitive, and is learned via cooperative practice with other students.
Aikido techniques focus on "blending" with an attack instead of resisting it, redirecting force harmlessly and allowing movement into a more advantageous position.
Aikido practitioners seek to unbalance the attacker while maintaining their own balance, making it easier to resolve the attack and prevent further attacks.
Aikido features many throwing techniques. Practitioners learn to both throw and fall without being hurt.
Aikido has a wide variety of techniques to control major joints, which restricts the attacker's movement and removes their ability to continue to attack.
Aikido of Colorado's assistant instructors.
Stephen Hlawaty (nidan) began his Aikido training in 1999 under Hiroshi Ikeda Sensei of Boulder Aikikai. Stephen has trained at Aikido of Colorado since 2012. Off the mat, Stephen teaches Language Arts at Poudre High School in Fort Collins.
Casandra Shell (shodan) began her Aikido journey with Aikido of Colorado in 2013. She enjoys bringing the practice of Aikido into daily life through mindfulness. Casandra also certified as an E-RYT 200HR Yoga Instructor & Meditation teacher.
